Faster powder isn't always best for short barrels

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03 October 2003, 04:02

<MePlat>

Faster powder isn't always best for short barrels

What does everyone say?

03 October 2003, 04:28

jnrifleworks

Short barrels arn't always best for max velocity.

However, between pistol and rifle barrels made for the same chambering, the loads don't cange that much. You don't need to download for the short barrel. Going to a faster powder on the shorter barrel will give you a better burn ratio than a powder burning its best on a long barrel. For example, 4895 or varget in a 223 with a 24" barrel is a good choice. Going to a 14.5" barrel, I go to h-335 for the better burn. It is debatable and splitting hairs, but there is enough science to back up this theory.

03 October 2003, 06:53

Paul H

I read an issue of Handloader from I recall the early 80's that tested this hypothesis with a Dan Wesson Revolver using 2, 4, 6 and 8 inch barrels. The results were, the best powder for a given bullet weight doesn't depend on barrel.

The majority of the bullets acceleration is in the first few inches of barrel.

03 October 2003, 17:22

bartsche

quote:
Originally posted by Paul H:
"Dan Wesson Revolver"

"The majority of the bullets acceleration is in the first few inches of barrel."[/QB]

What Paul is saying is very close to fact because once the bullet base Transends the gap between the cylinder and the barrel the pressure (force) drops dramaticly and of course so does the acceleration a=f/m.A closed system ,as in a rifle, you have the pressure available but decreasing the full length of the barrel.The acceleration is there but decreasing also.

03 October 2003, 18:50

Lar45

There was a writeup by JD Jones awhile back with a comparison of his cartriges in handgun and rifle length barrels. He found the powders that worked best in the long barrels also worked the best in the short barrels.